Heart Disease in Older Adults: Risk Factors and Warning Signs

By Silver Sitters

Heart disease risk increases with age, but risk factors and symptoms are different things. Knowing both helps older adults and their families plan routine care and recognize when emergency help is needed.

Possible heart attack: call 911

Call 911 immediately for suspected heart attack symptoms. These may include chest pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain; shortness of breath; discomfort in an arm, shoulder, jaw, neck or back; or cold sweating, light-headedness and nausea. Symptoms can be mild or come and go. Do not wait for a routine appointment or a caregiver’s report to a family member.

Even when you are unsure, emergency services can assess the situation. Use an ambulance rather than driving yourself, and follow the dispatcher’s instructions.

Review the factors that affect heart health

High blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels, smoking and diabetes can increase cardiovascular risk. Physical inactivity, excess weight and some dietary patterns also contribute. Age and family history cannot be changed, but a clinician can help you address other risks.

High blood pressure and high cholesterol often have no obvious symptoms. Discuss appropriate blood-pressure checks, cholesterol testing, medicines and follow-up with your healthcare team. Do not rely on feeling well as proof that these conditions are controlled.

Make a practical care plan

Ask the clinician which activities and dietary changes are suitable, what symptoms to report and who to contact after office hours. After a heart attack, ask whether cardiac rehabilitation is recommended. Exercise and recovery advice should reflect the person’s condition and treatment.

Family members and home caregivers can help organize appointment questions, keep an agreed record of changes, assist with meals and daily routines, and offer companionship. Their role should be clear in the care plan. Practical help at home does not replace medical assessment or treatment, and a caregiver should not change medicines or try to treat swelling independently.

Keep emergency contacts and the current medicine list accessible. Discuss the older adult’s preferences about sharing information so everyone understands their responsibilities.